Somalia: The new semi-state within the semi-state, Rasa-Asayr State within Puntland State
After two days of deliberation, members of Somalia’s Bari region consisting of civil servants and clan elders announced on Tuesday the formation of a new semi-autonomous region in northern Somalia.
It will be created inside the borders of the already existing Somali enclave of Puntland. They claim the new semi-autonomous region will be independent from Puntland and Somalia’s weak transitional federal government. Called Rasa-Asayr State, it comprises of towns and villages near the old historical-coastal town of Bargal in the mountainous eastern Bari region. The town will also serve as the administrative capital.
Speaking to VOA Somali Services, the new interim president, Farah Mohamud Yusuf (Dooha), a former founding member of Puntland, said they decided to establish the new semi-autonomous state after they lost confidence in Puntland government over its performance, security and services.
Rasa-Asayr State will join a handful of semi-autonomous states in Somalia including Puntland, Galmudug, Azania, Hiiraanland, Mareeg State, Himan State, South-West Somalia and Somali Central State.